With the RLPA and NRL both intervening in an attempt to ease the tense situation between the young forward and the Knights, it appears Newcastle are doing everything they can to avoid seeing their youngster play in the lime green this season, before his three-year deal begins in the nation's capital in 2017.

With the Roosters reeling with key injuries in their forward pack, it is believed they are keen on the promising 21-year-old.

However Tapine is unwillingly to play for three clubs in the space of just eight months.

Meanwhile Knights CEO Matt Gidley says talks are progressing with the Raiders, but insisted that any deal would have to benefit the Knights in some way.